Custom Wood Door & Window | Pros, Cons & Cost

August 8, 2024

Key Takeaways

Custom wood doors and windows are versatile and can be made to fit most spaces.
They offer decent insulation and can contribute to energy savings.
Wood doors and windows can increase the value of your property.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep them in top condition.
While initially more expensive, they are a long-term investment that can pay off – and at Panda Windows & Doors we can help you with the custom designs you need for a beautiful property for decades to come.

Custom Wood Door & Window: An Overview

Custom wood craftsmanship transforms high-quality wood into doors and windows that blend well with any architectural style.

Various types of wood can be used to create custom doors and windows. Some of these types include:

Hardwoods: Durability and rich in color. Examples include oak, mahogany, and walnut.
Softwoods: Popular for their affordability and natural insulating properties. Examples include pine and cedar.
Tropical woods: Less common but offer unique grains and resistance to decay.

Founded in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors specializes in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces through Panda Windows & Doors. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our extensive product lineup includes over 80 high-end offerings, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows. These systems are available in materials like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.

We are renowned for our award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and fast lead times, delivering in just 6-10 weeks to customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean. Trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.

Explore Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today

Pros of Custom Wood Door & Window

Aesthetics

Custom wood doors and windows reflect your home’s architectural style and personal preferences. If you want a grand entryway, functional features, or picturesque views framed by perfectly crafted windows, the right woodwork will turn your vision into reality.

Solid Wood – S.23 Pivot Glass Door System

A Solid Wood – S.23 Pivot from our pivot door collection.

Energy Efficiency and Insulation

Wood is a natural insulator so when used in doors and windows, it helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home, reducing energy use — and your utility bills.

On top of that, custom wood doors and windows are constructed to fit more precisely than mass-produced options, further reducing drafts and energy loss.

Longevity and Durability

Wood’s natural strength and the quality of craftsmanship that goes into custom work contribute to their longevity. When properly cared for, custom wood doors and windows can last for decades.

If damage does occur, wood is easier to repair than most other materials, extending the life of your doors and windows even further.

Increased Property Value

Investing in custom wood doors and windows can pay off if you ever decide to sell your home. These features are often sought out for their beauty, quality, and ability to boost a home’s property value.

Cons of Custom Wood Door & Window

Maintenance Requirements

Wood is a natural material that needs regular maintenance to keep it looking good and to protect it from the elements. This may include periodic sanding, painting, or staining to prevent weathering, warping, and decay. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to costly repairs or replacements down the line.

Wood can expand and contract with temperature changes, affecting the fit and operation of doors and windows. This means you need to make checks and adjustments to your custom wood doors and windows throughout the seasons.

If you’re not keen on regular maintenance, this can be a significant downside.

Weather Resistance

Wood doors and windows can be very vulnerable to harsh weather conditions. Without proper treatment, wood absorbs moisture, leading to swelling, rotting, or even insect infestation. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, you need to think about the impact rain, snow, and sunlight will have on your wood doors and windows.

Design Limits

Although custom wood doors and windows are popular for their design flexibility, there are limitations. Certain intricate designs or shapes are challenging to achieve with wood – or may require a skilled artisan to create, which drives up the cost and extends lead times.

The natural grain and color variations in wood also doesn’t suit every design aesthetic. If you want a very modern or minimalistic look, other materials like metal or fiberglass might be more appropriate.

s46 windows residential

A sample of our Residential Aluminum / Wood Clad S.46 Window System.

Cost of Custom Wood Door & Window

Understanding the Price Factors

The cost of custom wood doors and windows varies depending on the type of wood selected, the complexity of the design, the size of the doors or windows, and the craftsmanship level.

Due to the labor and materials involved, custom woodwork can be significantly more expensive than standard options.

Affordable Alternatives and Budgeting

If the cost of custom wood doors and windows is a concern, there are ways to manage expenses without sacrificing quality. Opting for more common wood species, simpler designs, and standard sizes can help keep costs down.

Long-Term Investment

Despite the higher upfront cost, custom wood doors and windows should be viewed as a long-term investment. Their durability and potential to increase property value can offset initial expenses over time. Additionally, the energy savings from improved insulation contribute to lower utility bills.

Choose Panda Windows & Doors for Custom Solutions

At Panda Windows & Doors, we understand the balance between beauty, functionality, and cost. With over 30 years of experience, we’ve honed our craft to provide you with the finest custom wood doors and windows.

The Panda Process

1. Design: We help you select custom wood doors and windows from over 85 options. Tailor every detail to your needs and approve the sales order to confirm all specifications before we create detailed engineering plans.

2. Manufacturing: Our project manager ensures all components are ready. CNC machines precisely cut and mill extrusions, which are then cleaned and powder-coated for durability.

3. Quality Control: Each product undergoes rigorous inspection and testing to ensure functionality and quality. We provide photos and videos of your completed products before packaging, ensuring they meet all standards.

4. Packaging & Shipping: Products are wrapped in protective materials and placed in custom-built crates for safe transit. We ensure your order arrives intact, whether shipping domestically or internationally.

5. Delivery & Warranty: Inspect your order upon arrival and register the product to activate the limited warranty. Apply a high-quality finish to wood surfaces within 7 days to prevent damage.

6. Care & Maintenance: Follow our care and maintenance guide to keep your Panda products in top condition. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure a lifetime of use and beauty, preserving the quality of your wood doors and windows.

Reach out to us to learn more about our custom wood doors and windows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why choose custom wood doors and windows?

Custom wood doors and windows offer unmatched beauty, craftsmanship, and versatility that blend well with your home’s unique architectural style. As a renewable resource, wood is also an eco-friendly choice for your home.

How to maintain custom wood doors and windows?

Maintaining custom wood doors and windows involves regular cleaning, periodic painting or staining, and the application of sealants to protect against moisture and UV rays. It’s important to inspect them annually for signs of wear or damage and to address any issues promptly to extend their longevity.

Are custom wood doors and windows energy efficient?

Custom wood doors and windows are energy efficient due to wood’s natural insulating properties. They help reduce heat loss during winter and keep your home cooler during summer — saving you money on energy bills.

Custom wood fitting also minimizes drafts and air leaks, further enhancing their energy efficiency.

What is the average cost for custom wood doors and windows?

The cost of custom wood doors and windows varies widely based on factors such as the type of wood, size, design complexity, and craftsmanship.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars per unit. It’s best to get a detailed quote based on your specific project to understand the investment required.

How long does it take to install custom wood doors and windows?

The installation time for custom wood doors and windows depends on the complexity of the project and the number of units being installed. Typically, the process can take anywhere from a few hours for a single door to several days for multiple windows or doors.